Phoenix Sunsets

Phoenix sunsets are the best! 

Art of Waiting

Since I've done all I've could at this point, now I'm just in another lull of waiting.  It's hard to say how long one should wait. I'm thinking of just packing up and moving anyway. I don't think it's wise, but then I run the risk of not making my goal.  To go or stay. Which do I choose?

Frustration

Meetings are never what you hope they will be.  It's a maze of uncertainty and of course I have come to another wall - I don't want to say a dead end, but it didn't give me the results I was hoping for. So I am still working hard to get a job, and it is so difficult I don't think I'm even going to make it to Phoenix. I am at a loss on what else I can do. I need some real help.

Do or Die Time...

The time has come. I finally have that all important "meeting" set up in Phoenix.  It's a big employer there.  Using my network, I was able to set up a meeting a with a couple of important people at this "employer".  Of course, I'm simply meeting with them. I called my contact there and stated I would be in town during a particular weekend, and would they be available while I'm there, would they have some time to meet with me?  Luckily, they were interested and did have some time.  No promises of any kind of job offer let alone a particular job.  Just a meeting so they can get to know me, what I'm capable of, basically, who I am.

So what happens if this falls flat?  No jobs, just a "thank you for coming in, if we should have something in the future, we'll keep you in mind" kind of thing.
When do I decide this whole process of getting to Phoenix is just a vanishing dream? I can see it on the horizon, but I just never quite get there? When do I decide to throw in the towel and say, it's not possible?
Time is ticking away, at what point is it too late?

Netting the Network

I realize how important it is to network with your friends, family (even the ones you normally don't talk to) neighbors, previous co-workers, current ones, if they all know your plans or can keep a secret depending on your work situation.... anyone who will take the time to hear you out and what your are attempting to accomplish. One or two who you speak to could possibly know of someone in that area. The key is finding that person. Obviously, it is easier to start with someone you know at an employer that just throwing that resume of yours into the hat of hundreds of other resumes. Get their name, number, email address if possible. Call them, introduce yourself.  Make those important connections. They may not have a position for you, but they may know of another manager or even have a friend at another company they can refer you to.
Regardless, make every effort to make those connections. Cast a wide net. You may come back without a nibble or it could lead to a bigger fish. 

Step 1 - Where to Begin?

Where do you start in the process of relocating?
In my experience so far, it has been extremely frustrating. If you are trying to
relocate due to a job offer, then a lot of the process has already begun for
you, but wanting to move just because you want to, not because you have to, is
another matter entirely. 

It can be a lonely, frustrating process. No one can really do the work for you.

Which comes first?  The job, or the move?

My plan is to try and find a job first.  This sounds nearly impossible during these tough, economic times, and almost laughable really.  (Thus the purpose of this blog)  I have to admit, it can feel impossible.

So I asked myself the obivious questions:
Should I sell my house prior to finding employment?  Then I'm left to possibly moving twice, to a temporary
living arrangement here locally, which in my position, is highly unlikely and expensive. 

I could sell my house (if it would sell) and move directly there without a job, but then where would I live?  I have two children to consider as well. I could use savings, etc. but what if a job doesn't come and it's months before I gain employment?

I could work a possible temporary assignment, but most don't pay well or offer benefits and still, you have competition for those jobs.
 
Still, all are options that must be considered.

So... Step 1
I spoke to many friends, relatives, business associates and am doing as much networking as possible in finding a position first. I find this can only be beneficial to a point, but luck still as to be on your side, as there still has to be an opening that you are qualified for, etc.

Part of this "Step 1" process is not to let the stress eat you alive. After discussing all the options over and over, I'm left to still find a way on my own.  No one else can do it for you. There is no magic wand or Genie, granting everything you need to be successful. A good friend told me that I need to stay positive, keep things in perspective. It's true, being negative is not productive.  This is not an easy process and it does make you question yourself, your abilities, and even your sanity.  So I keep moving forward. My goal?  To be there before school starts in the fall.

Wow... I know.

My Love of Phoenix and How it Started

My past year was a rough one.  Like many others, early last year I lost my job.  Then to add to my misery, I went through a  divorce.  Not unlike many others who have experienced the same fate as I, I managed to work through those challenges.  Moving on, letting go, and then, eventually (and luckily) finding a new job.  Once things calmed down a bit in my personal life I decided to visit friends in Phoenix.  I immediately bonded to this area!  The people are amazing, the atmosphere is light and casual, the sun is shinning constantly and the scenery, well... nothing can compare! Since my first initial trip, I've been several times since.  Now it has become my quest to join my friends and even a family member or two there and switch my life into a new phase.  It's not easy restarting your life half way (or more than half way) through it!  Some say I can't do it - others just don't see how.  The country is still in a recession, housing is still down and jobs are hard to find, let alone get.  When you're in love with an area so inspiring, moving and interesting, it's hard to change focus.  For me, it's my only focus.  I have to move forward.